basic phoneline network questions

[Warthog]

I'm interested in having the 10 mbps network over my existing phoneline between 2 computers. I have absolutely no network experience and am trying to learn. There has to be a server, right? Right. So, I've read that the server is the computer that handles the internet connection. Say Comp1 is the server. In order for Comp2 to connect to the internet, Comp1 has to be on also, right? That kinda sucks.

One of the two computers is mine in my bedroom. The other is the family's computer. The point of this network is so we can share devices, certain files, and most importantly, be online at the same time. If my computer was the server, I don't want to have to run up to my room and dial up on my comp just so my dad/sister can use the internet on the other comp.

I'm looking for good advice. Not any "duh!"s. I'm sure that this is obvious info to some of you but it is not to me. http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/frown.gif

Warthog

[SDT]

I think that you are going to have a problem with bandwidth and interference if you try to put 10 mbps over a non twisted pair phone line. Although it is a little extra work initially, you would be better off putting in a run of cat5 cable and a small hub. You would not need a server then & your in house network would be 100mbps. If you dont want to rent extra ip addresses from your broadband isp you could put in a firewall / switch / router like this one .... http://www.gamersdepot.com/rev_linksys_router_a.htm You could then share files, printers & play games behind your firewall. You can also both be online to the internet at the same time and you only need one ip address.


SDT

[tonym]

Warthog,

Can't be done! The POTS lines act really funky when you try to force a parasite signal (the 10MBps data) on them. And the telco might get pissed if they find out you're nuking the phone service for your immediate neighborhood!

It might be time better spent to snake some CAT5 cable in the walls between the rooms or else look into one of the short-range wireless transmitters available.

And in order to network, you'll need two computers and a hub. And if you want to use two computers and one modem, it's possible to do this without the run upstairs (I forget the process, but you can do it with the MS networking software in Win9X and NT/2K).

Sorry I don't have a better answer...


Tony

[SysOpt]

Do you mean phoneline networking using components that allows you to share the line with both data and voice? If so, I believe the current technology is limited to 1Mbps. Take a look:
http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?prid=117&grid=3

That's the kind of thing you would need to do it. It works, and is cheap, but really sucks for transferring files. It's fine for sharing a cable or DSL line though, for the most part. If you need to transfer small files or do multiplayer gaming, it's ok for that too.

Another option (alternative to running a cat 5 cable) is 11Mbps 802.11 wireless networking. Wireless network cards run about $150 a piece, and they also need an access bridge (works like a hub) which is unfortunately around $700. Here's some info:
http://www.zdnet.com/zdtv/freshgear/commentary/story/0,3679,2576859,00.html
http://www.zdnet.com/pcmag/stories/reviews/0,6755,2473134,00.html

I'm itching to get wireless for my apartment. I want to be able to surf from my laptop anywhere - living room coffee table, bedroom, etc. But $1k for convenience is pretty pricey. I could just run a long cat 5 cable out into the room when I feel the need to roam.

Scott

[SysOpt]

BTW, this belongs in networking, moving there now.